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News

UPTON HOUSE COMES ALIVE FOR POOLE PUPILS

Pupils at Turlin Moor Middle School have just completed an exciting and innovative project which has culminated in an exhibition in the Heritage Centre Tea Rooms at Upton Country Park.

Following a request from the Humanities Co-ordinator at the school for support in developing a local studies project, the Borough of Poole’s Museum Advisory Teachers and the Countryside Wardens based at the Park helped to set up this stimulating initiative. The focus was to be on Upton House and its surroundings which provide a rich source of both archive information and environmental material.

The pupils were set a challenge - to produce an exhibition which would help visitors to understand more about the history of the House and its environs. To help them with their research, three visits were organised when they were encouraged to investigate different aspects. Activities included sketching, guided tours and note-making. Historical events were really brought to life when colourful characters from the past, portrayed by the Museum teachers, appeared to take the children back in time and involve them in drama activities.

Back in school, they researched using maps and archive resources, following up on their visits and preparing their presentations. Throughout the project, there was an emphasis on developing historical enquiry skills and encouraging pupils to express their own interpretations based on the evidence they had found.

The final visit to the Park, on 22 June, coincided with the "Day in the Life of Poole" project which was a key feature of the Borough’s 750th Anniversary Celebrations. As such, it was fully documented and recorded.

John Pay, Chair of Governors at Turlin Moor Middle School, opened the exhibition and commented: "I feel very proud when I see the range and quality of work that the pupils have undertaken. It is particularly pleasing that their achievements will be appreciated and enjoyed by visitors to the Park throughout the coming Summer holidays."

Those interested in further details of this project are welcome to contact either the Countryside Wardens (01202 672625) or the Museum Advisory Teachers (01202 661001).

-ends-

Jane Skellet, Advisory Teacher Museum/School Advice and Support Service: 01202 661001